There is a new type of laptop out that is made with some desktop type components, and leaves out a battery. They figure most people have access to an outlet wherever they use it, so they can make it cheaper by leaving that stuff out.
Dave

if you plan to be on the move much, i'd really be sure to check laptops out before buying and consider factors other than price. cheap is great, but it's really a lot harder to swap parts out on a laptop than a desktop, so if you get shoddy parts, you're stuck with them. for me, the biggest laptop factor was weight because i was going to be lugging it around every day. that cool-looking 15" screen stops looking so cool when you're carrying 8lbs or more with the laptop and power supply. if you're thinking the laptop will just sit on your desk most of the time, really consider whether you'd be better off just buying a desktop and saving money.

Eeyore- my reason for the laptop is school purposes, i will be lugging it around everywhere, and 8-15 lbs is not a worry, i already carry a good 45lbs lugging my books around. i am in excellent shape so weight issue is not on my mind. true, this is my first time hunting for a laptop, choosing one with easy access compartments is a plus Thnx! i'll consider that.